JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – CSX trained more than 6,000 first responders in communities across its network last year.
The railroad held more than 60 sessions covering hazardous materials handling and incident response tactics, ensuring that first responders, contractors, and local government officials are informed and prepared to handle potential emergencies on and around railroad property.
“CSX takes pride in offering best-in-class safety training,” CEO Joe Hinrichs said in a statement. “Our ONE CSX collaborative culture is deeply rooted in safeguarding our communities and working closely with the first responders who share our safety commitment. Through classroom, virtual and hands-on training, we provide first responders with the confidence and skills necessary to effectively manage rail-related incidents, which helps protect our communities, employees and customers.”
CSX’s Responder Incident Training events included a safety train that makes stop at various points along the railroad to deliver advanced hazardous materials training. A total of 856 first responders and emergency response contractors benefited from these train sessions, the railroad says.
The CSX Police Department also played a role in the company’s 2023 safety initiatives, providing specialized training to 1,549 first responders.
“The partnership between CSX and first responders is really important,” emphasized Columbus, Ohio, Fire Chief Jeff Happ, who attended a 2023 Responder Incident Training train event. “CSX brings to the table a deep understanding and mastery of their equipment, and their willingness to impart that knowledge to us is invaluable. In the event of an emergency, this shared expertise allows us to protect our community in the best way possible.”
In addition, CSX’s community affairs personnel and an Incident Reduction team provide rail safety education in communities across the railroad’s 26-state territory. These efforts help reduce incidents near trains and railroad tracks and instruct first responders on safe, efficient and effective railroad-related incident response.
“Safety is not just an individual responsibility, it’s a collective commitment at CSX. Our approach to safety training is reflective of that,” Hinrichs said. “It’s crucial that we equip our employees, first responders and communities with the knowledge to make safe decisions around tracks and trains to minimize risk and ensure everyone’s well being.”
